Part of the shrinking numbers are due to the country's connection with New Zealand, where 24,000 Niueans currently live. Niueans are automatically New Zealand citizens, though the country governs itself.

The lush Pacific island is one of many hit by the exodus. The CIA estimates the population of the Cook Islands in the south is declining by 3% per year. It is also in free association with New Zealand.

On Niue, six schools used to stand, now there is only one. Other buildings once filled with people remain empty -- but Niueans remain optimistic. Last year, the tourism industry saw a boost with 7,000 people visited the island which is twice as many as six years before. On top of beautiful, quiet beaches, the island is said to have some of the world's best diving spots because of its marine life and underwater cathedrals.